NATIONAL
ASSOCIATION
OF SOCIAL
WORKERS IN
EDUCATION
Founded 1884
ASSOCIATION
OF SOCIAL
WORKERS IN
EDUCATION
Founded 1884
Foundation DegreesWhilst there is not a foundation degree specifically for those working in the EWS, the foundation degree in working with children and young people provides a broader academic qualification which may be a stepping stone to obtaining a full degree. Foundation degrees are designed to be undertaken whilst you are working and there are obligations, other than financial on the employer. It is worth checking before embarking on a course of study that you can access appropriate support from your workplace. Some providers will allow students to join the course in year 2 if they already hold appropriate qualifications such as NVQ4 LDSS.
They are an intermediate, work-related higher education qualification. They are designed in conjunction with employers to meet skills shortages at the higher technician and associate professional levels.
They are offered by universities in partnership with higher education colleges and further education colleges. Flexible study methods make them available to people already in work, unemployed people, or those wanting to embark on a career change. On successful completion foundation degree graduates can revisit their career options, and may choose to progress to further professional qualifications or to an honours degree.
Depending on the subject of study, a full-time course takes two years. Part-time is often three to four years pro-rata - your local higher education provider can give you more information.
There are no set entry requirements. The university or college offering the course will decide if you are eligible. Appropriate commercial and industrial experience may be more relevant than educational qualifications but check with the institution as some courses have specific requirements.
On completion of a foundation degree, there is the opportunity to progress to a full Honours Degree with just a further 12-15 months full-time study, (this can also be done on a part-time basis over a longer period of time). Foun dation degree graduates can also progress on to further professional qualifications. Those with foundation degrees will have the right to use the letters 'FDA' (for arts based subjects) or 'FDSc' (for science based subjects) after their names.
The foundation degree website will list all of the current courses with their providers. This is a rapidly developing area so it is best to regularly visit this site to see what is new and what has changed.
Links to foundation degree courses: -
